Manhattan Beach is a great beach community for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles or spend a refreshing vacation on the water.

Beyond the obvious attractions of the ocean and the beach, there are many options for family-friendly activities throughout this area. Here are just a few options to consider when planning your next trip:

AdventurePlex

This 16,000 square-foot facility is sure to have something for everyone. Older kids will enjoy the rock wall and ropes course, while younger children will have a blast in Toddler Town and the Play Structure.

Due to high demand, AdventurePlex suggests calling the facility before a drop-in visit to ensure that space is available before you come.

Roundhouse Aquarium

Located at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier, the RoundhouseAquarium is free and offers class, camps, and other activities for children of all ages. The aquarium includes viewing and touch tanks that feature a variety of fish, sharks, and other animals native to the water around it. There’s also a children’s reading area with books and puzzles. More than 15,000 children participate in its educational events each year!

While admission is free, donations between $2 and $5 per person are suggested. The aquarium also serves as a venue for birthday parties and holds the only science beach camp in Manhattan Beach.

Polliwog Park and Begg Pool

PolliwogPark is owned by the City of Manhattan Beach and has been named one of the best parks in the Los Angeles area to have a birthday party. The park’s play area includes a lighthouse-inspired playground with slides, water misters, a sand area, and three spaces for young children filled with climbing equipment.Next door to the park is BeggPool, which is the perfect place for your kids to cool off after running around in the park. The pool is open year-round, with reduced hours during the winter, spring, and fall months.